Achievements: In October 2014, his work "The Enemy Within" sold for US $209 000 at Sotheby’s. The following year, the same auction house sold "The Race" for US $274 000. Celebrities like Kris Jenner, Kanye West, Adrian Grenier, and Floyd Mayweather have collected his work. | Name: Abdullah Qandeel (Pronounced: Can-deel) Born: 1988 in Saudi Arabia Main Medium: Painting Art Movement: Contemporary Art, Abstract Art About the Artist: Qandeel’s journey of self-expression began at 10 years old when he was sent to the UK to attend one of the oldest schools in the world, The King’s School Canterbury. Always drawing, he was fascinated with sketching patterns and the notion of creating something from his mind that could be seen by others. After entering the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, Qandeel’s life took a new direction. Circumstances inspired him to create his first “real” art piece when he was 20. Qandeel strives to create joy and positive social impact in Saudi Arabia through his work. Qandeel believes everybody should ask themselves what their talent is, and look for a way to convey something good to others. Qandeel has a notorious reputation for replacing or painting on boring hotel art. Even though he’s been arrested twice for “redecorating” the five-star hotel suites, Qandeel never considered his subversive acts as vandalism. “I don’t have a habit of destroying property. I have a habit of making art,” he says. About the Artwork: Qandeel creates large oil paintings rife with texture and boundless energy. He is best known for his use of bold lines, shapes, and colors. Through his use of line and color, the Saudi artist explores themes such as power and failure. “There is no plan, just movement,” he says of his work. “You move, breathe, and believe in yourself.” |
Sources:
http://edgeofarabia.com/artists/abdullah-qandeel
https://www.artsy.net/artist/abdullah-qandeel
https://en.vogue.me/culture/abdullah-qandeel-creative-terminal/
http://edgeofarabia.com/artists/abdullah-qandeel
https://www.artsy.net/artist/abdullah-qandeel
https://en.vogue.me/culture/abdullah-qandeel-creative-terminal/